On behalf of the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), Louise Bradley, President and CEO, made the following statement.
“Through open and supportive dialogue during World Eating Disorders Action Day and beyond, we can help break the cycle of shame, stigma and silence that leads to inaction around these diseases.
Eating disorders are inadequately treated, under-researched, underfunded and misunderstood. Contrary to common belief, they do not affect only young women. Girls as young as age five are affected and older women over age 60 can live for 30 or more years with an eating disorder. Neither are boys and men immune. It is estimated 20 per cent of people with anorexia or bulimia are male.
These are also deadly diseases. Carrying an increased risk of suicide and medical complications, eating disorders are 12 times more likely to lead to death than any other mental illness.
But full recovery from an eating disorder is possible with the right treatments and supports. Prevention, early detection and intervention, research, and better family and peer supports are essential to improving care for all mental illnesses, but are especially pressing needs in the case of eating disorders.
Today I urge all Canadians to take action. Visit the website of the National Eating Disorders Information Centre at www.nedic.ca or the National Initiative for Eating Disorders at nied.ca and get informed. Or consider taking the World Eating Disorders Action Day pledge to commit to breaking down stigma by sharing the Nine Truths About Eating Disorders and promoting the Nine Goals of Taking Action Against Eating Disorders.”
ABOUT THE MENTAL HEALTH COMMISSION OF CANADA
The Mental Health Commission of Canada is a catalyst for change. We are collaborating with hundreds of partners to change the attitudes of Canadians toward mental health problems and to improve services and support. Our goal is to help people who live with mental health problems and illnesses lead meaningful and productive lives. Together we create change. The Mental Health Commission of Canada is funded by Health Canada.
www.mentalhealthcommission.ca | strategy.mentalhealthcommission.ca
Media Contact:
Hélène Côté, Senior Communications Advisor, Public Affairs
Mental Health Commission of Canada
Office: 613.683.3952
Mobile: 613.857.0840
hcote@mentalhealthcommission.ca
